Enclosures for LP Gas Supply Systems

If you build an enclosure for an LP gas cylinder, follow these recommended specifications. You must also follow local codes.

Enclosures for LP gas supply cylinders shall be ventilated by openings at the level of the cylinder valve and at floor level. The effectiveness of the opening(s) for purposes of ventilation shall be determined with the LP gas supply cylinder(s) in place. This shall be accom- plished by one of the following:

1.One side of the enclosure shall be completely open; or

2.For an enclosure having four sides, a top and bottom:

a.At least two ventilation openings at cylinder valve level shall be provided in the side wall, equally sized, spaced at 180 degrees (3.14 rad), and unobstructed. Each opening shall have a total free area of not less than 1/2 square inch per pound (3.2 sq. cm/kg) of stored fuel capacity and not less than a total free area of 10 square inches (64.5 sq. cm)

b.Ventilation opening(s) shall be provided at floor level and shall have a total free area of not less than 1/2 inch per pound (3.2 sq. cm/kg) of stored fuel capacity and not less than a total free area of 10 square inches (64.5 sq. cm). If ventilation openings at floor level are in a side wall, there shall be at least two openings. The bottom of the openings shall be at floor level and the upper edge no more than 5 inches (127mm) above the floor. The openings shall be equally sized, spaced at 180 degrees (3.14 rad) and unob- structed.

c.Every opening shall have minimum dimensions so as to permit the entrance of a 1/8 inch (3.2mm) diameter rod.

3.Cylinder valves shall be readily accessible for hand operation. A door on the enclosure to gain access to the cylinder valve is acceptable, provided it is nonlocking and can be opened without the use of tools.

Vermont Castings Gas Patio Fire

4.There shall be a minimum clearance of 2 inches (50.8mm) between the lower surface of the floor of the LP gas supply cylinder enclosure and the ground.

5.The design of the enclosure shall be such that (1) the LP gas supply cylinder(s) can be connected, disconnected and the connections inspected and tested outside the cylinder enclosure; and (2) those connections which could be disturbed when install- ing the cylinder(s) in the enclosure can be leak tested inside the enclosure.

6.Be certain to mount or set the LP gas cylinder on a flat surface and restrain it to prevent it from tipping.

Purge the gas supply line of any trapped air prior to the first firing of the unit.

WARNING: During the initial purging and subse- quent lightings, NEVER allow gas valve to remain in the “Open” position without first placing a burning match on top of the burner.